Hike Through Rock Creek Park
Western Ridge Trail - Search Nearby - Added by The Outbound Collective
This dirt trail is 9-miles out-and-back, but you can choose to turn around at whatever point you prefer. It makes for a great urban hike or run. Along the route, enjoy great views of the Potomac river.
This is primarily a dirt trail, which is pretty rare and fantastic for hiking and trail-running. Depending on where you exactly start, it's roughly 4.5 miles, so it's a pretty moderate hike/ run or almost 10miles if you do the out and back. There are also a ton of other paths, so you can easily add on extra miles if you want to or get on the Valley Trail if you want to make it a super loop.
Photos: Erin Johnson
9 Miles RT
450 ft Gain
Out-and-Back
Fitness, Chillin, Running, Hiking
Nearby Lodging
We want to acknowledge and thank the past, present, and future generations of all Native Nations and Indigenous Peoples whose ancestral lands we travel, explore, and play on. Always practice Leave No Trace ethics on your adventures and follow local regulations. Please explore responsibly!
Reviews
Overall rating:
1st Time
This was my first experience hiking/running through a trail like this. Very refreshing and full of adventure. I️ definitely recommend wearing proper shoes for this, it can get slippery with the rocks and wet leaves. Overall had a great time.
Enjoyable Hike Or Bike In The Town Center
I run or bike here every other week and have always loved this trail. It feels like you're out in the sticks despite being in the heart of the city. It's a safe neighborhood but some woman disappeared a few years back when she was running through the park...don't let it deter you...DC can be dangerous anywhere. It's a pretty place and an easy running/biking spot to hit after work on some idle Tuesday.
